The Yakshagana performances staged under the joint aegis of Deepa Educational Institution, Deepa House Building Co-operative Society, Sri Gokarnanatheshwara Trust, Bunts Association Mysuru, Federation of Dakshina Kannada and Coastal District Associations, Mysuru and Sri Mahalingeshwara Temple, K. Hemmanahalli, won the hearts of Yakshagana enthusiasts in the cultural city recently.

The unique art form of the coastal region offered a refreshing and enriching experience to art lovers of Mysuru.

Artistes from the popular Tenkutittu tradition’s Sri Kodandarama Kripaposhita Yakshagana Mandali, Hanumagiri, presented these mythological Yakshagana performances.

The rhythmic beats of the chende and maddale, soulful singing by the Bhagavatars and the energetic dance-drama performances of the artistes created a memorable  experience for the audience.

On Day-1, at the auditorium of Jaganmohan Palace, the troupe presented Sri Ramanjaneya (poet: Kadandale Ramaraya), Sri Sudarshana Vijaya (poet: Madhukumar Bolara) and Raktha Rathri (poet: Balipa Narayana Bhagavata).

On Day-2, at Asha Prakash Shetty Bunts Bhavan, the artistes staged Damayanthi Punaswayamvara (poet: Dhvajapurada Nagappayya) and Srinivasa Kalyana (poet: Agari Srinivasa Bhagavata).

All five prasangas were drawn from mythological narratives and introduced audiences to stories from the Epics and Puranas. The writers of these prasangas are among the eminent poets of Kannada literature. Their poetic excellence, social & mythological insight and the authentic flavour of Yakshagana deeply impressed the spectators.

The Bhagavatike by Ravichandra Kannadikatte and Chinmaya Bhat Kalkadk, along with the experienced ensemble of senior artistes, brought the mythological tales vividly alive before the audience.

Each prasanga is renowned for its unique storyline. Themes such as the relationship between devotees and the divine, emotional bonds and battles were imaginatively brought to life on stage by the performers.

The audience response on both days was overwhelming, reflecting the enduring appreciation and recognition that Yakshagana continues to enjoy even today.